Windows 11 is the latest evolution of Microsoft's flagship operating system, blending a refreshed user interface with deep changes under the hood. For hackers, security researchers, and curious tinkerers, it's more than just a visual upgrade — it's a new playground with familiar architecture and new barriers to explore. From the integration of a redesigned taskbar and new window management features to the requirement for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, Windows 11 introduces both opportunities and challenges for those looking to understand its inner workings.
Under the surface, many core components remain consistent with Windows 10, but Microsoft has tightened security with features like Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), enhanced kernel isolation, and a focus on hardware-driven protections. These changes shift the attack surface and make certain traditional techniques obsolete or harder to pull off.